Causes

Aplastic anemia is believed to be caused by the patient’s immune system attacking the bone marrow. It slows down the production of blood cells. In some cases, aplastic anemia is a temporary side effect of a medication. It can be reversed if exposure to the cause is stopped.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your chances of having aplastic anemia include:

Exposure to certain environmental toxins such as those found in gasoline, paint, oil and coal emissions, and industrial solvents

High dose radiation and chemotherapy treatments

Certain viruses

Certain medications such as antibiotics, some illegal drugs, and medications used to treat
rheumatoid arthritis

Diagnosis

After you are diagnosed with aplastic anemia, you may need additional tests to determine the cause.

You will be referred to a blood disorder specialist, a hematologist, or a special treatment center for further evaluation.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment for aplastic anemia varies according to severity and cause.

Blood Transfusions

Blood transfusions provide your body with the blood cells that your bone marrow has stopped producing. This is not a cure. It helps relieve symptoms.

Immune Suppressing Medication

These medications change or slow your immune system to keep it from damaging your bone marrow cells. This gives your bone marrow time to recover and begin producing blood cells again. These medications are sometimes used along with steroids to reduce side effects. This treatment often requires a short stay in the hospital.

Bone Marrow Transplantation

The replacement of diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow is the best treatment option for some with severe aplastic anemia. You will need a donor whose bone marrow matches your own as closely as possible.

Other Treatments

Your aplastic anemia may be mild to moderate. It may also be caused by exposure to radiation, chemicals, or medications. Your doctor may choose to monitor your condition if the cause of the aplastic anemia is stopped. This approach can be enough to restore normal bone marrow function.

Prevention

Most cases of aplastic anemia cannot be prevented. Limiting exposure to certain environmental toxins can reduce your risk of developing the disease. Environmental toxins include those found in gasoline, paint, oil and coal emissions, and industrial solvents.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.